Revisiting the risks of MRI with Gadolinium based contrast agents—review of literature and guidelines

• DOI: 10.1007/s13244-015-0420-2
• Publication Date: 2015-08-07T05:14:04Z
• Authors: Aurang Z. Khawaja; Deirdre B. Cassidy; Julien Al Shakarchi; Damian G. McGrogan; Nicholas G. Inston; Robert G. Jones
• Keywords: Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis; Contraindication; Interventional radiology; Neuroradiology; Clinical Practice

Gadolinium based contrast agents (GBCA) have been linked to the occurrence of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) in renal impaired patients. The exact interaction between various different available formulations and NSF is not completely understood, but has postulated. This association triggered public health advisory bodies issue guidelines best practice recommendations on its use. As a result, reported incidence NSF, as well published use GBCA-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging impairment, seen decline. Understanding events that led these can increase clinical awareness implications their usage. We present review literature brief overview recommendations, manuals safety aide everyday practice. • Low risk gadolinium should be choice insufficiency. Higher doses development. Doses low possible. Clear documentation date, dose type formulation used noted. Post-scan dialysis arranged soon possible feasible. Pre- existing inflammatory state factor; liver insufficiency contraindication.